Virtual and online learning arrived through a "force majeure" (French for "superior force"), the global COVID-19 pandemic. Google Expeditions, Google Arts and Culture and the Merge Cube are classified as simulated learning environments. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) create simulated learning environments with the potential to increase student presence and engagement, thereby facilitating inquiry-based learning through location-independent meaning-making. The use of multisensory approaches in AR and VR enables additional pedagogical strategies for personalized content and differentiated instruction while connecting to learners' diverse intelligences. In addition, such simulation environments provide pathways for training learners in 21st century core skills such as agility, complex problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and digital literacy. Transformative pedagogical approaches are called for to develop, implement, and deliver teaching for 21st-century curricula. Twenty-first century curricula needs to enable students to actively engage, explore, and experiment with contemporary technology and engage with lifelong learning processes. This article briefly traces the conceptualization of three tools particularly well suited for 21st century skills engagement: Google Expeditions, Google Arts and Culture, and the Merge Cube. More broadly, the article also explores the challenges and educational use cases of digital worlds and transformative learning experiences.